steam_getRegionalPricing

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses a key behavioral trait (no API key required) and implies read-only access, but does not mention rate limits, error handling, or potential side effects. The disclosure is adequate but incomplete.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description consists of two clear, front-loaded sentences with no superfluous information. Every word adds value, achieving maximal conciseness while conveying essential purpose and a key usage note.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given no output schema, the description minimally indicates return data (price, currency, discount per region) but lacks details on structure, field types, or error conditions. It is sufficient for simple use but incomplete for complex scenarios.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The input schema already describes both parameters (appid and countries) with 100% coverage. The description does not add further semantic meaning about the parameters, such as how to obtain an appid or how country codes affect results. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states that the tool retrieves pricing for a Steam app across multiple regions, specifying the returned data (price, currency, discount). This verb+resource structure effectively distinguishes it from sibling tools like steam_getPriceOverview, which presumably handles single-region pricing.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., steam_getPriceOverview). The description only mentions that no API key is required, which is helpful but does not address selection criteria or exclusions.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.